October Bucket List for the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion

October is a beautiful time to visit the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion. The leaves transform from vibrant green to rich, rusty red, and the summer crowds have thinned out, allowing for a more peaceful experience. You can still make the most out of the crisp Autumn days, enjoy a bike ride, visit a pumpkin patch, have a leisurely stroll or enjoy a delicious coffee in one of the cosy cafes around Mourne Gullion and Strangford. 

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1. Visit a Pumpkin Patch

Nothing says October like a trip to a pumpkin patch. Spend an afternoon picking the perfect pumpkin for carving or decorating your home. Many patches also offer spooky games, corn mazes, and petting zoos, making it a fun outing for all ages. 

Enjoy Montalto Estate’s pick your own pumpkin patch, attend one of their fantastic Halloween events this October. Our Halloween events blog will give you the scoop on spooktacular events and pumpkin picking in the area on our Halloween blog of events.

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2. Take a Haunted Tour 

For those who love a good scare, visiting a "haunted" area or taking a ghost tour can be a thrilling experience.  Be aware when around the Mourne Gullion and Strangford area there will be some spooky attractions and events that come alive during October. Check out the Phantom Flyer if you are brave enough or discover the darker side of Downpatrick's long history.

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3. Create pumpkin/autumn crafts 

Carve your pumpkins into spooky or silly faces or get creative with paint for a less messy option. Display your creations on your doorstep to welcome trick-or-treaters. Or enjoy events creating or painting autumn themed decorations. 

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4. Go on a Leaf-Peeping Adventure

Take a scenic drive or hike to admire the stunning Autumn foliage. Whether you’re in the Mourne mountains, one of our beautiful forest parks, or gorgeous gardens, the array of colors will leave you in awe. Don't forget your camera to capture the beauty of autumn leaves. 

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5. See a Halloween Movie

Get into the October spirit by seeing a Halloween movie. From classic horror films to family-friendly favorites, there’s a film for every taste. Add some popcorn, cozy blankets, and snacks for a fright-tastic night.  

The Newcastle Community Cinema will be showing Halloween themed movies throughout the month so look out for the events on What’s On October. 

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6. Explore a Local Artisan Market

Visit an Artisan’s market to enjoy the bounty of the autumnal season. You’ll find fresh produce, homemade jams, baked goods, and artisan crafts. It’s also a great way to support local farmers and artisans. 

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7. Make Smores Around a Bonfire

Get into the great outdoors this October, experience camping the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion. We have so many camping and glamping destinations for you to stay in. Gather friends and family and enjoy making s’mores under the stars. The crackling fire and gooey marshmallows make for a quintessential Autumn evening. 

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8. Attend a Halloween Event

Explore a local Halloween festival where you can enjoy seasonal foods, crafts, music, and more. Many festivals also feature activities like games, spooky trails, live entertainment and firework displays.  

Like our Howl-oween event Footsteps in the Forest This festival celebrates the ancient festival of Samhain with eerie entertainment, spookalicious treats, and immersive storytelling. 

And the Newcastle Hallow Scream event that happens each year in Newcastle County Down. Enjoy colorful fireworks displays, parades, live music and crafts. All events available on Whats On October and Halloween Events 2024.

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9. Cycle the scenic locations

Embrace the Scenic Routes this October, follow the cycle routes around the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion, or tackle some trails in our forest parks. Enjoy the cooler temperatures, vibrant foliage, and crisp air which creates the perfect atmosphere for outdoor adventures in the Autumn.

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10.  Get into the great outdoors 

Grab yourself a hot drink in a café and head for a walk, spend a crisp October day exploring the forest parks of the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion, we have a selection of beautiful parks that are rich in shrubs, plants, wildlife and atmosphere. You can expect an array of Autumn colours and maybe see some cute red squirrels on your ventures. 

Keep eyes on our 2024 Halloween Blog, you can expect Autumnal markets, spooktacular festivals, events and fireworks displays all throughout the Mourne Mountains and Ring of Gullion area.